To diagnose aortic aneurysms and dissections, our medical team may use the following tests:

• Physical exam and medical history: Checking your symptoms and learning about your health background.
• Computed tomography angiogram (CTA): A detailed scan that shows the blood vessels and helps spot any problems.
• Magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA): A scan that uses magnets to create clear images of the blood vessels.
• Echocardiogram: An ultrasound that shows how your heart and aorta are working.
• Aortogram: An X-ray that looks at the aorta after a dye is injected to see any blockages or tears.

When it comes to treating aortic aneurysms and dissections, the approach depends on how big the problem is, where it’s located, and how serious it is. At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we offer several advanced options to fix these issues:

Open Aortic Aneurysm Repair

This is a surgery where the damaged part of the aorta is removed and replaced with a strong synthetic tube (like a patch). Our expert surgeons do this for both the chest and abdomen areas, depending on where the aneurysm is.

Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR)

This is a less invasive option. Instead of open surgery, a small cut is made in the groin, and a special tube (called a stent) is placed inside the aorta to support it. EVAR is usually used for aneurysms in the abdomen but can sometimes help with those in the chest too.

Hybrid Aortic Repair

For more complicated cases, we use a mix of open surgery and the stent method. Our team is skilled in combining these approaches to fix tricky aneurysms in both the chest and abdomen.

Aortic Dissection Repair

When the aorta tears, it’s a serious emergency. Surgeons need to fix the tear quickly and replace the damaged part with a synthetic tube. Our team is ready around the clock to perform these urgent surgeries.

In simple terms, we have different ways to fix the aorta, from traditional surgeries to less invasive options, depending on the situation. Our goal is to keep things safe and effective for each patient.

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we are committed to providing the best possible care for children with Aortic Aneurysms and Dissections. Here’s why families trust us:

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm or dissection, trust the experts at Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital. Contact our vascular and cardiothoracic team today to schedule a consultation.